Distribution, habitat and territory size of the sao-paulo-marsh-antwren (Formicivora sp. nov.)

• Grant number: 11/16251-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: March 01, 2012
• End date: February 28, 2014
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Zoology
• Principal Investigator: Luís Fábio Silveira
• Grantee: Glaucia Cristina Del Rio
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biociências (IB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The sao-paulo-marsh-antwren (Formicivora sp. nov.) belongs to Thamnophilidae, one of the richest families in endemic avifauna occurring in the neotropical region. This species is still undescribed and occurs exclusively in the State of São Paulo. Discovered in 2005, in wetlands occurring in the largest south american metropolitan region, it is currently classified as "critically endangered", specially by inhabiting vulnerable areas. Its range is restricted to the Alto Tietê Basin and Paraíba do Sul Basin, in cities such as, Arujá, Mogi das Cruzes, Biritiba-Mirim, Salesópolis and São José dos Campos. These regions are very populous and characterized by complex forms of occupation and use of natural resources. Knowledge about this species are almost nonexistent and this lack prevents any conservation strategy. Therefore, this study aims to collect new data for clarifying its distribution, habitat preference and territory size. Species occurrence will be verified, using quantitative census, in nearly 46 areas previously selected. Furthermore, a vegetation parcels analysis will be performed in order to describe species' habitat in at least ten selected areas. Lastly, territory size of some couples will be analized in three different areas, mapping birds presence with the use of colored-rings, GPS and georeferenced maps. Understanding these aspects is essential to define the actual Formicivora sp. nov. threatening status, and to plan further preservation strategies.

Academic Publications

(References retrieved automatically from State of São Paulo Research Institutions)

RIO, Glaucia Cristina Del. Distribution, habitat, and home range of São Paulo marsh antwren (Formicivora paludicola). 2014. Master's Dissertation - Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Instituto de Biociências (IBIOC/SB) São Paulo.